Easy Spring Pea Tart: A Fresh, Vibrant Recipe for Any Occasion
Garden-fresh flavors meet tangy cheese spread and balsamic glaze in a stunning appetizer.
Easy Spring Pea Tart
This spring pea tart is a fresh, vibrant dish that harnesses the flavors of the season—whether you’re preparing an effortless brunch, an elegant appetizer, or a colorful side for dinner. Using shortcut ingredients like frozen peas, store-bought puff pastry, and herbed goat cheese, this tart comes together quickly but looks and tastes spectacular. The combination of rich cheeses with sweet peas, a touch of honey, and a finishing drizzle of balsamic glaze makes each bite memorable. Here’s everything you need to know to make this showstopping tart at home, step by easy step.
Why You’ll Love This Pea Tart
- Simple ingredients: Utilizes store-bought puff pastry, frozen peas, and pre-flavored goat cheese to save time while maximizing flavor.
- Fast and easy: Minimal prep and assembly. Ready in under an hour, including baking and cooling time.
- Seasonal appeal: Peas capture the essence of spring, but the tart is delicious year-round thanks to frozen ingredients.
- Customizable: Easily adjust cheeses or toppings to suit your taste or what’s in season.
- Elegant presentation: Beautiful enough for entertaining, yet easy enough for everyday cooking.
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen peas (from a 10-oz. package)
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (half of a 17-oz. package), thawed
- 3/4 cup grated gouda cheese (about 3 oz.)
- 8 oz. herbed goat cheese
- 2 tsp. honey
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 cup snow peas, trimmed and halved crosswise
- 1/2 tsp. olive oil
- Balsamic glaze, for topping
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat Oven and Prep Peas:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook the frozen peas according to package instructions, then set them aside to cool. Dividing into two portions now will help with later assembly.
- Prepare Puff Pastry Base:
On a sheet of parchment paper, gently roll out the thawed puff pastry into a 10-by-12-inch rectangle. Move the parchment and pastry onto a baking sheet for ease of handling.
- Use a fork to score a border about 3/4 inch around the edge—this creates a beautiful, fluffy crust.
- Prick the interior of the pastry (inside the border) several times with a fork. This keeps the center flat for toppings while the border rises.
Sprinkle the center of the dough evenly with the grated gouda cheese.
Bake the pastry for 18–20 minutes, until golden and puffed. Allow to cool for 15 minutes before assembling the tart.
- Make the Goat Cheese-Pea Spread:
In a food processor, blend together:
- Herbed goat cheese
- Honey
- 1 cup of the cooked peas (reserve the other cup)
- Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste)
Process until smooth, creamy, and vibrantly green. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Spread the Cheese Mixture:
When the pastry base has cooled, gently spread the goat cheese-pea mixture evenly inside the border. This layer provides flavor and a luscious texture beneath the fresh toppings.
- Top with Peas and Snow Peas:
Sprinkle the remaining cooked peas evenly over the goat cheese spread.
In a bowl, toss the snow peas with olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a crack of black pepper for a glossy, crisp finish. Distribute them over the tart as desired.
- Finish and Serve:
Right before serving, drizzle the tart with balsamic glaze for a touch of tangy sweetness and a dramatic look.
The tart is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled. Slice into squares or rectangles for brunch, a luncheon, or as a light, flavorful appetizer.
Tips for the Best Spring Pea Tart
- Thawing puff pastry: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for about 30–40 minutes. Don’t let it get too soft, or it will be difficult to handle and might not puff as well.
- Cheese variations: Swap gouda for fontina, gruyere, or parmesan if needed. For a more assertive taste, use a black pepper or garlic-herb goat cheese.
- Balsamic glaze: Store-bought glaze is quick and easy. You can also make it by simmering balsamic vinegar until syrupy.
- Make ahead: All components (cheese spread and cooked peas) can be prepped ahead; assemble and bake the crust on the day you plan to serve.
Suggested Variations
- Add herbs: Scatter fresh mint, chives, or tarragon over the tart for extra spring flavor.
- More vegetables: Add thin strips of asparagus, baby spinach, or spring onions along with the peas.
- Crispy prosciutto: For a non-vegetarian addition, crisp prosciutto in the oven and sprinkle over the finished tart for a salty crunch.
- Dairy swaps: Try a vegan herbed cheese or cashew spread if avoiding dairy.
- Mini tartlets: Use a biscuit cutter or muffin tin for individual tarts, great for parties or appetizer platters.
Serving Suggestions
- Brunch: Pair with a zingy salad of arugula and radishes, and serve alongside fresh fruit.
- Appetizer: Cut into small squares for an easy, hand-held starter at gatherings.
- Light lunch or dinner: Add a poached egg or serve with a bowl of fresh soup for a filling meal.
- Picnic fare: This tart travels well once cooled—bring it to outdoor celebrations or garden parties.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover tart (covered) in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pastry may soften but will still taste delicious.
- Reheating: Warm slices in a 300°F oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it will make the pastry soggy.
- Freezer tips: Assemble but don’t bake the tart in advance, if needed—freeze unbaked (well wrapped). Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
What others are reading
Nutrition Facts (Estimated Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 320 | 10g | 29g | 18g | 4g |
Nutrition values will vary based on brands and substitutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make the tart in advance?
A: Yes. While it tastes best fresh, you can bake the crust, blend the goat cheese mixture, and cook the peas up to one day early. Assemble the tart the day you plan to serve for peak freshness.
Q: Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely. Blanch fresh shelled peas in boiling water for 1–2 minutes, then cool quickly in ice water. Proceed with the recipe as written.
Q: What is herbed goat cheese, and can I make my own?
A: Herbed goat cheese is soft goat cheese blended with fresh or dried herbs (like chives, basil, or dill). To make your own, mix plain goat cheese with your favorite finely chopped herbs to taste.
Q: How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?
A: Docking (pricking) the center with a fork before baking and sprinkling cheese over the pastry creates a barrier that helps prevent sogginess. Ensure the base cools before spreading any moist toppings.
Q: Can I make this tart gluten-free?
A: Yes, use a gluten-free puff pastry sheet as a 1:1 substitute—these are available in many specialty stores or online.
Related Spring Tarts & Pairings
- Easy Summer Vegetable Tarts: Swap in zucchini, squash, or cherry tomatoes for a different taste and look.
- Rustic Strawberry Tart: Add a sweet twist to your tart repertoire with seasonal fruit and a flaky crust.
Final Tips for a Picture-Perfect Pea Tart
- Use fresh, quality ingredients for the brightest color and flavor.
- Don’t overbake the crust—look for golden brown edges and a firm base.
- Finish with extra herbs or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.
- Slice with a sharp knife to keep the pastry crisp and layers distinct.
This easy spring pea tart is sure to impress—simple to make, loaded with freshness, and perfect for any gathering or moment worth savoring at home.
References
- https://katiecouric.com/lifestyle/recipes/pioneer-woman-ree-drummond-poptart-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a42791708/pea-tart-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a64460844/easy-summer-vegetable-tarts-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6U-TG70k-s
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a101104/spring-puff-pastry-tart/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g46768127/pea-recipes/
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